Columbia U anti-Israel group banned from Instagram for policy violations

The Students for Justice in Palestine chapter at Columbia University was permanently removed from Instagram for violating the platform's policies regarding dangerous organizations. This group has been involved in organizing anti-Israel protests and has faced accusations of acting as a proxy for Hamas. Their activities included illegal occupations of university buildings and demonstrations that some critics labeled as antisemitic, particularly a protest where inflammatory signs were displayed targeting Jewish students. Following the removal, the national Students for Justice in Palestine and other pro-Palestinian groups expressed their discontent, claiming that the ban was a deliberate attempt to suppress pro-Palestinian voices as the fall semester approached. They argued that this action was part of a broader trend of censorship against student organizers advocating for Palestinian rights. In addition to the social media ban, families of victims from the October 7 attacks have called for an investigation into the group, alleging violations of the Foreign Agents Registration Act. They contend that the organization has been promoting Hamas's agenda on college campuses, which they believe undermines the safety and educational environment for students. The situation has sparked legal actions, with victims' families suing the national organization and its affiliates for their alleged role in justifying violence against Israel. This controversy highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict, particularly in academic settings, where debates over free speech and hate speech continue to evolve.